Amazon announced that it has reached a deal with the robotic cleaning appliance manufacturer, 'iRobot.' The e-commerce giant will be buying iRobot for $1.7 billion USD in cash while allowing iRobot's CEO, Colin Angle, to remain in his position.
Amazon Device's Senior VP, Dave Limp, stated: "Over many years, the iRobot team has proven its ability to reinvent how people clean with products that are incredibly practical and inventive," continuing on to state that he believes the companies share a passion for innovation and convenience.
With this new partnership, it is expected that iRobot OS will integrate Alexa services into the iRobot suite of devices, allowing the robotic cleaning appliance to be controlled by voice in more than one way. Previously, iRobot featured integrations with smart assistants such as Siri, so Alexa integration is familiar territory.
Robotic Appliance Acquisitions
Amazon is Acaquiring 'iRobot' for $1.7 Billion USD
Trend Themes
1. Rise of Robotic Appliances - The growing trend of incorporating robotic technology into new home appliances presents opportunities to develop AI systems that automate daily tasks for consumers.
2. Integration of Smart Assistants - The integration of smart assistants, such as Alexa, into robotic appliances represents an opportunity to improve voice control technology and create new, convenient user experiences.
3. Acquisitions in the Robotic Appliance Industry - The recent acquisition of iRobot by Amazon may signal a trend of increased mergers and acquisitions in the robotic appliance industry as companies seek to expand their product offerings and integrate new technologies.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics - The robotics industry can capitalize on the growing trend of integrating robotic technology into home appliances by developing new AI systems and smart assistants that can be easily integrated with existing robotic products.
2. E-commerce - The acquisition of iRobot by Amazon presents opportunities for e-commerce companies to expand their product offerings and incorporate new technologies, such as voice control, into their existing platforms.
3. Home Appliances - The integration of robotic technology into home appliances presents opportunities for companies in the home appliance industry to create innovative new products that automate daily tasks and improve the user experience.